Although it is located mere minutes from downtown Philadelphia, the neighborhood of Powelton Village has an entirely different atmosphere than the rest of the city. With leafy streets, quaint shops, and colorful Victorian-style homes, this local enclave is also the center of Philadelphia's counter-cultural movement and is just a few minutes from several different universities.

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A Historical Neighborhood with Modern Flair

Although there aren't many museums or tourist attractions in the area, the atmosphere and history make Powelton Village a pleasant place to explore or stay. The area was first settled in the 1850s and is now a National Historic District with many different styles of Victorian architecture and old-fashioned gardens on display.

As part of the University City section of Philadelphia, Powelton residents are a mix of locals and students from University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University. These academic ties have led to a diverse, creative, and politically active population. It was once a popular haven for hippies and housed the city's first food co-op. These days Lancaster Street is the center of commercial activity, with many small restaurants, art galleries, and shops. The area is well-known for its many delicious pizza places and independent bookstores.

Affordable Option Close to Downtown

Powelton is well-connected with the rest of the city via SEPTA's Market-Frankford line. Amtrak and regional rail lines stop at 30th Street Station and head into the suburbs and to New York. The last trolley line in the city runs along Lancaster Street and 36th Street. Parking is an issue in the area, so visitors with cars may want to stay somewhere with more garages. Another option is to explore the area via bicycle.

Powelton Village is a great place to stay for those who want to explore the city but would like a more peaceful environment in the evenings. Visitors do not need to worry about safety in Powelton Village, as the area is very quiet and secure, even after dark. The area has very little nightlife, aside from a few local restaurants and neighborhood bars.

Charming Bed and Breakfasts

There are few hotel options in Powelton Village, but there are several bed and breakfasts in the neighborhood. The Cornerstone Bed and Breakfast and Spruce Hill Manor are both in historic Victorian homes and offer complimentary breakfast and snacks. The Sheraton Philadelphia University Hotel is slightly outside the neighborhood but has more room options and better rates.